What You Learn
We believe that even the world’s most destructive conflicts can be resolved to create a more peaceful future. With a bachelor’s degree or minor in Conflict Resolution from Portland State University, you will be able to participate and contribute to this important work locally and globally.
Bachelor degree holders are suited to entry-level careers in the field of conflict resolution, as well as being prepared to add value in any community setting, occupational field, or workplace by bringing conflict transformation strategies to bear. Undergraduates acquire these skills as they focus on the transformation of conflict for the achievement of peace and social justice at the small group and community level.
Undergraduate Learning Outcomes
- Basic Knowledge: Undergraduate students will demonstrate the understanding of conflict resolution theory, the basic causes and consequences of conflict, the differentiation between destructive and constructive approaches to conflict, cross cultural awareness, and successful intervention strategies.
- Basic Skills: Undergraduate students will demonstrate effective skills in de-escalation of conflict, constructive communication, principled negotiation, and cultural competence.
- Research and Writing: Undergraduate students will be able to critically engage with and synthesize, in speech and writing, information derived from various ways of knowledge.
- Professionalism: Undergraduate students will demonstrate the ability to participate in civil discourse, understand the legal and ethical dimensions of the conflict resolution field and understand their role in their professional and community engagement.
Degree Details
Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) Degrees
- The Conflict Resolution Bachelor Degree program is 56 credits, 20 credits of required courses and 36 credits of elective courses. Majors may also take a Career Preparation course (CR 411), typically in their senior year.
- Students work closely with their faculty advisor in Conflict Resolution as well as with their Pathways advisor for general academic support.
- The program offers a fall orientation event for students as well as by appointment and drop-in advising.
- BA Degree Planner
- BS Degree Planner
Minor in Conflict Resolutions
- A Minor in Conflict Resolution is 28 credits.
- Students work with their advisors to customize their minor based on their particular interests and life experiences.
Required Courses
- Introduction to Conflict Resolution
- Conflict Resolution Skills
- Values & Ethics in Conflict Resolution
- Conflict Resolution Psychology
- Intercultural Conflict Resolution
Sample Electives
- Peace Studies
- Consensus Building
- Participating in Democracy
- Ecology of War & Peace
- Nonviolence History & Campaigns
- Career Preparation
Course Schedule
View Upcoming Classes